Best Cordless Drills

The Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Drill/Driver is praised for its lightweight, compact design and brushless motor that delivers good performance for home and hobby use. Reviewers noted the keyless chuck and included battery kit as significant advantages. However, it's not recommended for professional construction workers who need durability for extended daily use. Popular Woodworking's Collin Knoff called it a superior option to most 12V drills, suitable for 98% of tasks with lower fatigue. The tool is well-balanced and ergonomically designed, making it ideal for general DIY projects around the house.

Makita's XFD14Z is the compact 18V LXT drill/driver: brushless, two speeds, 65 Nm and a 21-position clutch in a 2.9 lb body. It is strongest driving fasteners and doing light drilling, where TechGearLab scored it 4 out of 5 and placed it near the top of its drill comparison, and its runtime is unusually good for a compact battery. Large hole saws are the exception; the drill drops into low gear, slows right down and empties the pack. Best for someone already on the 18V LXT platform who wants a small drill for fasteners and pilot holes rather than sustained heavy cutting.

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL ½ Inch Drill/Driver delivers impressive performance in a lightweight, compact design ideal for finish work and confined spaces. Reviewer Wayne Cormier praised its ease of use, rubber grip, and ability to handle demanding tasks like 2" hole-saws without slowing down. The tool's durability was confirmed through drop tests from 3 to 8 feet. While reviewers noted the battery removal could be improved, the drill's brushless motor and low weight make it a strong contender for professionals seeking a versatile 12V option. It's particularly suited for contractors who need a lighter alternative to M18 drills but still want substantial power.

The Bosch 12V Max EC Brushless Lithium Ion Drill and Driver is praised for its compact, lightweight design that makes it ideal for cabinet installation and fine finish work where larger tools would be cumbersome. Reviewers highlight the brushless motor's longevity and improved runtime, as well as the 20+1 clutch settings for precise screw driving. However, it's not recommended for heavy-duty applications, and some users noted that the bit storage mechanism degrades with use. This tool is best suited for professionals and DIYers doing detailed carpentry work rather than heavy construction tasks.

The Bosch GSR 18V-90 C is a professional-grade cordless drill driver designed for demanding tasks, featuring a compact form factor that excels in tight spaces. Reviewers praised its robust build quality, including a metal chuck and soft-grip handle, along with its brushless motor that delivers 64 Nm of torque. The precision clutch and kickback control are highlighted as standout safety and performance features. However, it lacks hammer functionality for masonry work and comes with a premium price tag of €170. While ideal for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts, those needing masonry capabilities should consider alternatives like the GSB version.

The Makita XPH07T 1/2" Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver earned a score of 8.6/10 in Pro Tool Reviews' extensive shootout, praised for its high torque output of 1,090 inch-pounds and smooth performance. Reviewers noted its stability under load thanks to the long side handle and minimal vibration. The tool's 21-position chuck and auxiliary handle enhance usability, though it's limited to 3-inch hole saws and weighs 5.1 pounds with a 5.0 Ah battery. While it performs well in value comparisons, some reviewers noted the weight could be a drawback for prolonged use.

The Black+Decker 20V Max PowerConnect LD120VA is a budget-friendly, lightweight drill designed for simple household tasks like hanging artwork or assembling prefabricated furniture. Reviewers noted it lacks the power for demanding jobs, with one test showing the drill smoking while drilling through a door. While it includes a full set of bits and a bit holder, its single-speed operation and underpowered performance make it unsuitable for serious construction work. It's best for occasional users who need a basic tool for light-duty projects.